Overview & Reviews

Since its 1995 introduction, the Hyundai Accent has served as the company's entry-level small car. Although grouped with similarly priced subcompact cars, the Accent sedan and hatchback have always fallen under the EPA's classification for a compact car, which translates to a surprisingly roomy interior. Other typical Accent advantages include generous standard equipment, a choice of hatchback and sedan body styles and long warranty coverage.

The latest Hyundai Accent has made great strides toward front-runner status in this competitive segment, which is a welcome change from past models. It is now larger inside and out, and the overall look of the car is certainly more dynamic. Performance and overall quality have been notably improved as well. Prior to the current-generation car, older Accents suffered from low safety ratings and an overall level of quality that didn't match up to some competitors.

Current Hyundai Accent
Available as a sedan or a four-door hatchback, the Accent comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder producing 138 horsepower and 123 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, while a six-speed automatic is also available. Power output is impressive for the class, and the Accent gets excellent fuel economy as well.

The sedan comes only in base GLS trim, while the hatchback comes in GS and the top-line SE trims. The GLS is nicely equipped with air-conditioning, full power accessories and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio and iPod/USB/auxiliary input jacks. Option highlights including foglights, alloy wheels, keyless entry, upgraded interior trim, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cruise control and Bluetooth are available. The GS hatchback adds a few extra features. Stepping up to the SE hatchback gets you pretty much all of the optional features as standard.

Inside, the Hyundai Accent has a look and feel that's a cut above most rivals, with patterned upholstery, a sculpted dash and a modern overall design. Although some drivers may be bothered by the lack of a telescoping steering wheel as standard equipment on most trims, taller passengers will find all but the rear center seat roomy and comfortable. Cargo space is also quite accommodating, especially in the hatchback models.

On the road, the Accent's four-cylinder engine pulls significantly stronger than the power plants of its major competitors. Both the six-speed manual and the six-speed automatic transmissions make good use of that output, too. What it lacks in sporty handling dynamics, it compensates for with a quiet, comfortable ride and good overall composure -- criteria likely more important to buyers shopping this segment. That the Accent performs this well overall while still rating an EPA-estimated 31 mpg combined is impressive. Overall, the Hyundai Accent stands as a front-runner in the subcompact segment.

Used Hyundai Accent Models
The Hyundai Accent was fully redesigned for 2012, marking its fourth generation. Compared to the previous generation, this Accent is roomier inside, with a more stylish design and a more powerful and fuel-efficient engine. There haven't been any major changes since, although the optional telescoping steering wheel didn't become available until 2014.

The third-generation Hyundai Accent was built from 2006-'11. It's a cost-effective choice for a used car, though not a particularly exciting one. All third-generation Accents were powered by 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 110 hp and 106 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices included either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic.

During its run, a steady progression of changes and improvements were implemented. Initially, a sedan body style and single trim level were available. In 2007, a two-door hatchback was added to the lineup along with additional trim levels: the GS and SE were offered on the hatchback and GLS was the only sedan choice.

GS models were modestly appointed with the bare necessities. The SE added 16-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, power accessories, a CD player, a sport-tuned suspension and quicker steering. The GLS sedan included air-conditioning and the audio system as standard, with power accessories and alloy wheels optional. A sunroof and an upgraded audio system were optional on the SE.

There was a slight bump in fuel economy for 2009, as well as available cruise control. For 2010, the entry-level Blue trim joined the lineup as the new value leader, but was renamed the GL one year later. In the meantime, the GS received standard air-conditioning. USB connectivity was added to the available auxiliary input in 2010. Used car shoppers should pay special attention to whether or not an Accent has antilock brakes, as the car's braking distance grows excessively long without them. Antilock brakes weren't even an option for the GS until 2010. Finally in 2011, all Accents featured it as standard.

In reviews, we found the third-generation Accent to be a decent choice for those seeking basic, fuel-efficient transportation, but plain styling and cheap materials kept appeal fairly low. Still, there was enough interior space for average-sized adults to get comfortable in the front or rear. Driving the Accent offered no revelations in performance, but the brakes were strong (with ABS) and ride quality and handling were acceptable for an economy car. Power was adequate for driving around town, but sluggish at highway speeds in automatic-transmission models. One final aspect to consider is the Accent's crash test scores; it performed very poorly in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's side-impact crash test.

The second-generation Accent was sold in sedan and hatchback form from 2000-'05. Initially, this Accent was offered only with an 89-hp, 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (horsepower varied slightly over the years). A 104-hp, 1.6-liter engine joined the lineup in 2001 and replaced the 1.5-liter altogether in 2003. Acceleration was adequate even with the 1.5-liter engine, however, and both the automatic and manual transmissions perform acceptably.

Handling and braking capabilities were modest on second-gen Accents, mainly because of the car's undersized 13-inch wheels and tires. Hyundai did offer the 2004 and '05 GT hatchback with 14-inch wheels and a firmer suspension, but if you're buying any used Accent, it's a good idea to set aside some money for better tires. Unfortunately, antilock brakes were optional only on 2005 Accents. Front seat-mounted side airbags were standard on 2003 GL sedans and hatchbacks, and on all 2004 and '05 models.

Sold from 1995-'99, the first-generation Hyundai Accent was also available as both a compact sedan and a three-door hatchback; it replaced Hyundai's shoddily built Excel subcompact (1986-'94). All Accents of this era came with a 92-hp, 1.5-liter engine, except for the 1996 and '97 GT hatch, which had a DOHC, 16-valve version of this engine good for 105 hp. ABS was optional on automatic transmission-equipped Accents sold from 1995-'98, but this safety feature was discontinued entirely for 1999 and didn't turn up again until 2005.

User Reviews:

• 

  NOT BAD HYUNDAI, NOT BAD AT ALL!!! - 2001 Hyundai Accent
  By TYLER - October 11 - 2:00 am

  I LOVE MY LITTLE HYUNDAI ACCENT!IT IS FUN TO DRIVE,ESPECIALLY ON THE BACK ROADS. THE ENGINE POWER IS MORE THAN ENOUGH TO SCOOT AROUND THE LOW 2,280 POUNDS OF A CAR.I BOUGHT THE CAR USED FROM MY UNCLES DEALERSHIP IN MARYLAND,AND EVERY THING SO FAR HAS BEEN GREAT! FIRST GEAR IS DESIGNED PERFECTLY TO PULL YOU INTO TRAFFIC QUICKLY, BUT NOT EXACTLY EASILY.IT TOOK SOME GETTIN USED TO BUT IVE GOT IT DOWN.IT REALLY SUPRISED ME THAT A 105 HP ENGINE DID SO WELL.IT IS VERY FUN TO DRIVE,AND I WOULD HIGHLY RECCOMEND ONE!!!

• 

  A good car at first - 1998 Hyundai Accent
  By pebbles - October 9 - 2:00 am

  A good car at first, but then started to have major problems after 3 1/2 years of having it. The transmission went out. Right now I am looking to get a more reliable vehicle. My advice to whoever buys this car is to buy the new ones that is "1999 and up with the warranty of 100,000 miles for 10 years, whichever comes first. Do not buy this car that does not have that warranty because you will be in the same sort of situation I am currently in.

• 

  One up from a skateboard - 2016 Hyundai Accent
  By Mike Gender - October 8 - 2:49 am

  I traded my 2006 Hyundai Accent for this 2016 Hyundai Accent and unfortunately the 2006 is a better car; better in quality, gas mileage, and comfort. The 2016 doesnt even come with a spare tire, nor tools to change it. You have to call roadside assistance, wait an hour, because the car dont come with a spare, they tow you to a repair facility. The car has a economy switch that you can push on to get better fuel economy, but it gets better fuel economy, with the switch off. My 2006 got better mph (34 mph) the 2016 (32 mph) The inside of the trunk and the lid is only primered, like they just gave up. The seats are hard and uncomfortable. The car is probably the worst manufactured car ever made.

• 

  its been a pleasure... - 1997 Hyundai Accent
  By oh-one - October 6 - 2:00 am

  My 97 accent manual hatchback L has babied me more than my mother. i owned good ole L-Swift Mckay from mile zero to mile 103,000. i reluctantly gave him up after 4yrs and 10mos of unadulterated dependability and perseverance.

• 

  THE BEST NON BIAS OPINION ON THE MARKET - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By MIKE THE MACHANIC - October 6 - 2:00 am

  I AM A VOLKSWAGEN MECHANIC(27 YEARS), AND I LOVE GERMAN EGINEERING, HOWEVER VW CUSTOMER SERVICE AND QUALITY HAS BEEN LAGGING FOR SOME TIME NOW. HYUNDAI ON THE OTHER HAND DEFIES THE LAWS OF PHISICS. MY CAR IS THE BEST INVESTMENT I HAVE EVER MADE. IT ACTUALLY APRECIATED IN PRICE THIS YEAR. THE CAR IS TO GOOD!! FOR TO LITTLE PRICE. HYUNDAI WAKE UP AND SELL YOUR ACCENT FOR $5000 MORE MARK UP AND START MAKING SOME REAL MONEY. PEOPLE WILL BUY YOUR GOOD QUALITY NOW!!

• 

  Cool little car. - 1999 Hyundai Accent
  By Brian Sherman - October 4 - 2:00 am

  Absolutly love my 19990Accent. Nice tight suspension around corners, very zippy 5 speed and very comfortable. Did I mention the awesome gas mileage? Recommend!

• 

  GREAT car for the price! - 2002 Hyundai Accent
  By Tony in Northeast PA - October 2 - 2:00 am

  I owned 3 Honda Civics before trying out the Accent. "Pleasantly surprised" would be an understatement. I cant imagine a better car for the price. Its loaded with more features than I would have ever expected. Its really peppy and runs like a champ (so far!). The Hyundai warranty is what sold me...if they are willing to stand by their products, I was willing to give it a try. Im glad I did. Terrific around town car and even good for longer hauls. A great 2nd family car (I have a Hyundai Santa Fe to do the real family hauling).

• 

  My first Hyundai... - 1999 Hyundai Accent
  By rocket88 - October 1 - 2:00 am

  In 99 I bought the Accent just for commuting to work. Its got 40,000 miles on it now and Ive had no problems whatsoever. Oh, wait, a headlight went out at 30,000 miles and the wiper blades need replacing. Gets 35mpg at mostly between 75-80. Ive changed the oil 14 times myself and had the dealer do the 15K and the 30K mile service. Even the little 13 inch tires are still servicible, but have always been awful in the rain. Overall I think I got a great deal at $6995 and if the next 40,000 miles are like the first., I might just buy another one.

• 

  Accent GS: Perfect Town Car - 2001 Hyundai Accent
  By cathipb - September 30 - 2:00 am

  Our 2 year old Accent had only one mfg defect which was promptly fixed by the dealership. It handles well, gets great mileage, easy to park, a perfect town car.

• 

  would never buy a hyundai again - 2000 Hyundai Accent
  By candyb - September 29 - 2:00 am

  This car has been in the shop 3 times for various things that were covered under warranty, along with another hyundai we have that has been in the shop twice.